Naloxone is a medicine that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It works by helping someone breathe again, buying vital time until an ambulance arrives. It is safe, simple to use, and completely free.
Carrying Naloxone is an act of care. You do not need to use opioids yourself to make a life-saving difference. Most overdoses happen when someone else is nearby, so the person who saves a life is often a friend, family member or neighbour.
What is an opioid overdose?
Opioids include drugs like heroin, oxycodone, morphine, fentanyl, methadone and some strong pain medications. Sometimes people take them on purpose, and sometimes they do not realise something contains opioids until it is too late.
An overdose happens when these drugs slow breathing down so much that a person cannot get enough oxygen. Without help, this can become life-threatening very quickly.
Know the signs
Spotting an overdose early and acting fast is essential. Call 999 if you notice:
• Slow, shallow or no breathing
• Snoring, choking or gurgling sounds
• Pale, clammy skin or blue lips and fingertips
• Being very hard to wake up or not responding at all
• Tiny “pinpoint” pupils
If you are unsure, treat it as an overdose. It is always better to get help.
How Naloxone helps
Naloxone can restart breathing by temporarily blocking the effects of opioids in the brain. It does not cause harm if given to someone who has not taken opioids, so you can feel confident using it if you are worried.
It comes in small kits that are easy to carry. Most people can learn to use it in just a few minutes.
How to save a life with Naloxone
If someone might be overdosing:
- Call 999 straight away
- Give Naloxone if you have it
- Place the person in the recovery position
- Stay with them until help arrives
Naloxone may wear off after a short time, so medical support is still needed even if they wake up quickly.
Why carrying Naloxone matters
Opioids are appearing in drugs people do not expect, including some benzos and powders. Around the holidays, drug supplies change more often and risks increase.
You could save a friend’s life without ever knowing they were at risk.
You can get a kit for free from:
• Wirral Ways
• Partner pharmacies
• Nightingales Recovery CIC
• Some supported accommodation settings and hostels
We can train you to use it when our sites reopen in January. Training is short, straightforward and confidential.
What to do if something seems different
If you suspect a contaminated batch, have a bad reaction, or get a positive test strip result, please let us know at:
wirralways.org.uk/report
You do not have to give your name. Information like that helps us protect the community and reduce harm.
You are part of the safety network
Naloxone gives people a second chance. It keeps someone alive long enough to recover, reconnect, and get support if they want it. Carrying a kit shows courage, compassion and community.
If you would like a Naloxone kit or more information, get in touch. We will help you feel confident and prepared. You have the power to save a life.
You are never alone in an emergency.
Support is always within reach.
Last Updated on 4 December 2025